If you’re craving a quick and tasty meal, Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is the answer. This recipe is not only simple to make but packed with flavor that everyone will love. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that shines at any gathering or weekday dinner. Let me guide you through each step to achieve succulent grilled shrimp that’s sure to impress. Ready to dive into deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh Herbs and Spices
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
– 8 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
– Grill or grill pan
For this Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe, the ingredients shine through with simple yet bold flavors. Start with large shrimp for the best bite. Olive oil adds richness, while lemon zest and juice bring bright acidity. Garlic enhances the taste with its warm, savory notes.
Fresh herbs like parsley and dill add a garden-fresh touch. Smoked paprika gives a hint of warmth and depth. Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste.
Don’t forget your tools! Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. A grill or grill pan is essential for that perfect char. For the full recipe, check out the instructions that follow!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, grab a medium bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. This mix is your marinade. Next, sprinkle in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk again until all ingredients blend well. The smell will be fresh and bright, making your mouth water!
Marinating the Shrimp
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp to the marinade. Make sure each shrimp gets a good coat. This step is key for flavor. Once coated, cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let them chill for 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to soak up all those tasty flavors.
Grilling the Shrimp
While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you use a grill pan, heat it on the stovetop. Next, take your soaked wooden skewers and thread the shrimp onto them. Aim for about 4 to 5 shrimp per skewer. Once ready, place the skewers on the grill. Grill them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook; no one likes rubbery shrimp! After grilling, let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Pro Tips for Marinating
For the best flavor, marinate your shrimp for 20-30 minutes. This time lets the shrimp soak up all the tasty juices. If you leave them too long, they can become mushy. Use fresh herbs like parsley and dill for a bright taste. You can also try adding cumin or cayenne for a little kick.
Grilling Tips
To know when shrimp are done, check for a pink color and opaque texture. They usually take about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid common pitfalls by not overcrowding the grill. This way, the shrimp cook evenly. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp can go from perfect to overcooked in seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your lemon herb grilled shrimp with a light salad or grilled veggies. A fresh side dish enhances the meal. For a great presentation, serve the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of herbs. This adds color and makes the dish look appetizing. Check out the Full Recipe to explore more serving ideas.
Variations
Different Marinade Ingredients
You can change up the marinade for lemon herb grilled shrimp. Try using fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley and dill. These herbs add a new twist to the dish. You might also enjoy a kick of heat! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
For citrus swaps, lime juice works great. You can even use orange juice for a sweet flavor. Each option brings a different taste to the shrimp. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite.
Grilling Methods
You can grill shrimp on a stovetop or outside. Outdoor grilling gives a smoky flavor that many love. It also allows you to cook a larger batch at once. Stovetop grilling is a great option if the weather isn’t nice. Just use a grill pan for a similar effect.
If you want to make grilling easier, try a grill basket. This keeps small shrimp from falling through the grates. It also allows for even cooking. Just make sure to coat the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Serving Variations
There are many ways to serve lemon herb grilled shrimp. You can make tasty shrimp tacos. Just add your favorite toppings, like cabbage and salsa. Shrimp also shines on salads. Toss them with mixed greens, avocado, and a light dressing.
Another option is to add shrimp to pasta. They pair well with garlic and olive oil. You can create a delicious meal in no time. The possibilities are endless, so get creative! For the full recipe, check out the instructions provided above.
Storage Info
Storing Cooked Shrimp
To keep your grilled shrimp fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them safe from other odors in the fridge. Grilled shrimp last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool them down before putting them away.
Freezing Cooked Shrimp
If you want to save grilled shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. First, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes. This keeps them tender and tasty.
Storing Marinade
You can store leftover marinade in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container. If you want to reuse it, cook it first to kill any bacteria. You can also repurpose the marinade as a salad dressing. Just add a bit more olive oil and some vinegar for a fresh twist.
FAQs
How long should I marinate shrimp for lemon herb grilled shrimp?
You should marinate the shrimp for 20 to 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up all the great flavors from the marinade. If you marinate too long, the shrimp may become mushy. So, stick to this time for the best taste and texture.
What type of shrimp is best for grilling?
I recommend using large shrimp for grilling. They hold their shape well and cook evenly. Look for shrimp labeled as U10 or U12, which means there are 10 to 12 shrimp per pound. This size gives a nice bite and is perfect for skewering.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps them firm. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps the marinade stick better.
To sum it up, this blog post shared how to make delicious lemon herb grilled shrimp. We explored the main ingredients, especially shrimp, olive oil, and fresh herbs. You learned how to prepare the marinade and grill the shrimp for perfect flavor. I offered tips to make your dish even better and suggested fun variations. Finally, we reviewed how to store your shrimp for future enjoyment. Enjoy your cooking and impress your friends with this tasty recipe!
